Effects Of Tobacco Tax Hike

Frankfort, KY – A state legislator says he thinks Governor Fletcher's proposal to raise cigarette taxes in Kentucky about 40 cents a pack will affect only one group...those who use tobacco products. Jon Draud says the only people it really hurts is people who smoke. The Crestview Hills republican says he plans to file a bill in favor of the increase. Kentucky tobacco retailers claim the tax hike could stem the flow of Ohioans and residents of other states who flock across the border to take advantage of cheap tobacco prices in kentucky. They also believe the impact could go far beyond tobacco sales because those shoppers buy other products during their trips to Kentucky.